The low-cost long-haul airline model will continue to have a significant effect on the global aviation landscape in 2018, according to a new report from Amadeus.
Amadeus’s Global Airline Industry Almanac forecasts that low-cost carriers will grow at the fastest rate at 11.8% each year until 2023, followed by hybrid carriers at 8%.
“The introduction of new aircraft that support low-cost flights on mid and long-haul routes is ushering in new low-cost entrants,” the almanac reads. “What has surprised many is the pace at which network airlines have introduced their own branded offers in this market. Competition in the low-cost, long-haul market will be the one to watch in 2018.”
The almanac also reports increased passenger loads across all regions, with more than four billion passengers taking to the skies in 2017. It forecasts growth of 6% year-on-year until 2023, when the number of global airline travellers will exceed six billion.
Amadeus’s Global Airline Industry Almanac: A spotlight on 2017 and key trends for the year ahead was created in collaboration with Connections –part of Jacobs Media Group –and other industry partners.
The objective is “to provide a reference source for key developments in the airline industry in 2017, and aid further innovation during 2018”.
Julia Sattel, senior vice president, Airlines, Amadeus, said: “2017 was a successful year for our industry. Many airlines have seen more-robust balance sheets, driven by the strong and growing demand for air travel across the globe despite the loss of some long-established airlines.
“We hope this report supports the industry in its drive to improve both business and technical development during 2018 as we continue to innovate and digitally transform our industry together.”
Micaela Giacobbe, founder and director of Connections, says: “I’d like to thank all of the Connections delegates and sponsors who have helped shape the content of the Almanac. With Amadeus as our technology partner, we’re able to work together to build a holistic view of our industry, and the developments that are driving it forward. I hope this Almanac is a useful resource for all travel industry professionals.”